An early souvenir; 1901 is written in the upper right corner. The frame is covered with birch-bark. Size: 105x163 mm.

The church of Nykarleby was built in 1708 and is one of the oldest wooden churches in Finland still being used by the parish. The parish of Nykarleby was separated from Pedersöre parish in 1607. At that time a smaller wooden church was built, but was felt too small and consequently torn down.

A speciality for for this church is its iconography, above all the paintings in the ceiling. The artist was Daniel Hjulström from the region of Östergötland, Sweden. The paintings were completed in the years of 1749—50. The artist Johan Alm also contributed extensively to the decoration of the church, especially concerning the altar and the pulpit. The altar triptyche is painted by Hjulström.

The paintings in the vaulted wooden ceiling have their motives from Psalms 150 and 34 and the Revelation of S:t John. You can see angels, trumpets and dark clouds as well as symbols for the Holy Trinity of Father, Son and the Holy spirit.

The church has lately been restored in the years 1987—1993 and it seats 950 people. The church and the campanile were repainted and received a new roof of copper. The electric light system was renewed etc.

The campanile with three bells was built in 1702.

The paintings in the choir windows by professor Lennart Segerstråle were donated to the church by the teacher August Ahlnäs.


Henry Byskata (1998).